Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts … — Colossians 3:15
I want to depart from my normal format for these devotionals and share some practical thoughts on the topic, "When a leader falls."
When a Christian leader falls, give yourself time to process. There is a lot to work through. You won’t work through it in a day. There will be sadness and anger. But the fall may stir up all kinds of other feelings — betrayal, guilt, abandonment, fear, and so on. It may create temptations. Take the time you need to bring all of this to the Lord, and if you need help bringing this to the Lord, find someone to help you. (Most of us will need help.)
While you’re processing, don’t make any major decisions if you can avoid doing so. As a principle in life, you want to make major decisions from a place of settled peace. So wait until the storm is over.
My wife recently had a wisdom tooth pulled. The dentist told her that the pain is often the worst two days after the extraction. In the same way, don’t be surprised if the hurt gets worse before it gets better.
Parents, remember it is your responsibility to interpret life for your children. Listen carefully to their questions and concerns about what is going on. Take time to hear them out, and be thoughtful in your replies. Children of every age will have questions; be honest and helpful. Kim and I sense that parents of children ages 10-15 need to be particularly proactive here.
Christian leaders fall. It happens every day. But we are still on the winning team. God is not taken by surprise. He is not left without resources. He can take all of this and turn it around for good and for the advancement of His kingdom.
Be encouraged!
Dwight
Dwight Clough is the author of four Christian books and is an active member of Lake City Church in Madison. This devotional is also available via email and you may review the archives back to 2002. Dwight and his wife Kim provide prayer ministry for inner healing / transformation and coaching in prayer ministry. He is available to speak to your group or church. To contact Dwight or Kim, use their contact form. You may also support their ministry.